Domestic workers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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domestic workers

[dəˈmɛstɪk ˈwɜrkərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

work

Domestic workers are individuals employed to provide services within a household. These services may include cleaning, cooking, child care, and other household tasks.

Synonyms

domestics, house help, household staff.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
domestic workers	This term is generally used in professional or formal settings to refer to individuals employed to perform household tasks. The rights of domestic workers should be protected under employment law
household staff	This term is used to refer generally to a group of individuals employed to manage various tasks in a large household or estate. It's typically used in more formal or professional, sometimes affluent, contexts. The household staff ensured that every guest was comfortable during the event
domestics	This term can be used in a more casual or outdated context. It may sound less respectful in contemporary use. In the estate, the domestics managed all household chores
house help	This is a less formal term and is often used in everyday conversation to refer to individuals who assist with household tasks. We've hired some house help to assist with the cleaning and cooking

Examples of usage

They hired a team of domestic workers to help maintain their large estate.
The demand for domestic workers has increased with the rise in dual-income households.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

legal

Domestic workers are individuals who work in a private household and are not covered by standard labor laws. They may face challenges such as lack of job security and fair wages.

Synonyms

household employees, in-home workers, private household staff.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
domestic workers	This term is widely used in legal, social, and employment contexts. It generally refers to people employed to perform household tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and child care. Many domestic workers face challenging working conditions. There are agencies that specialize in hiring domestic workers.
household employees	Often used in legal and tax documents to specify individuals who work within a household setting. This term is formal and commonly used in employment contracts. Household employees must report their wages for tax purposes. Hiring household employees requires knowing the relevant labor laws.
in-home workers	This term is typically used to emphasize the workspace, which is inside someone’s home, and can include caregivers, nannies, and personal assistants. In-home workers need clear guidelines to maintain boundaries. Hiring in-home workers requires trust and proper background checks.
private household staff	Used mainly in wealthy households or estates to refer to a more organized and structured group of employees, including butlers, maids, and gardeners. The private household staff includes a chef, a personal assistant, and a driver. Managing a private household staff can be complex and requires careful coordination.

Examples of usage

Many countries are working to improve the rights and protections for domestic workers.
Domestic workers often face exploitation due to their vulnerable legal status.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'domestic workers'

The term 'domestic workers' dates back to the 19th century when the Industrial Revolution led to the demand for household help in urban areas. Initially, domestic workers were predominantly women and minorities who performed tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and childcare. Over time, the role of domestic workers has evolved, but challenges such as low pay, lack of benefits, and poor working conditions persist in many parts of the world.